President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih says the collaborative efforts from the people and the government had assisted the country to overcome the economic downturn brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and emerge as one of the first nations to revive its economy.
He made the comments in a meeting with the residents of Alifu Alifu Atoll Ukulhas.
During the meeting, the President stated that vulnerable island communities such as Ukulhas, which are heavily reliant upon tourism as their main income source, had suffered the most due to the economic downturn caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. He said that the collaborative efforts from the people and the government had assisted the country to overcome the downturn as one of the first nations to revive its economy.
Speaking to the residents, the President highlighted the concerns raised by the island council. The President clarified that efforts are underway to address the issue of the difficulties faced in using the island harbor and ferry terminal. He added that funds would be allotted for the road development project and the upgrades to the health center in the next year’s budget.
At the gathering, residents from Ukulhas Island shared their concerns with the President. They emphasized issues such as the need for better equipment for the school and sports infrastructure. The President and cabinet ministers shared the details of the administration’s plans for alleviating the housing problem and answered public queries.
President Solih assured that the administration will work towards the progress of Ukulhas Island, stating that the government would recognize public perception to guide the administration’s way forward by shaping policies to reflect the feedback.
The President met with local businessmen and guesthouse owners from the island later tonight and enquired about the challenges they face. During the meeting, they stressed the difficulties faced in running their businesses due to high utility tariff rates and high interest rates on business development loans.
Ukulhas Island is the President’s third destination on his current two-day trip to six islands of Alifu Alifu Atoll. President Solih is accompanied on this trip by a delegation of cabinet ministers and senior officials from the government.
